Chinese Grand Prix 2004 - Race Schedule and Countdown

Rubens Barrichello won Formula 1's inaugural Chinese Grand Prix with a dominant performance at the spectacular new Shanghai International Circuit, controlling the race from pole position to secure his second consecutive victory. The Brazilian led every lap on the state-of-the-art facility, managing the challenging circuit expertly as Jenson Button delivered another strong performance for BAR-Honda in second. Kimi Räikkönen completed the podium for McLaren in third, while Michael Schumacher could only manage twelfth after a rare off-day for the world champion.

The historic maiden race at Shanghai's extraordinary circuit showcased Formula 1's expanding global ambitions, the impressive facility featuring innovative design elements and passionate Chinese fans experiencing Grand Prix racing for the first time. Barrichello judged the unfamiliar circuit perfectly, his flawless performance securing back-to-back wins after finally being freed from team orders constraints. Button's second place confirmed his status as the season's revelation, the Englishman's consistency earning him third in the championship ahead of Fernando Alonso. Schumacher's rare poor result proved irrelevant with the title long since secured.

China's Formula 1 debut provided a commercial triumph despite the processional race, the spectacular Shanghai facility and enthusiastic reception pointing toward Asia's growing importance to the sport. Barrichello's victory meant he'd won two of the season's final three races, finally demonstrating his capabilities when given equal status within Ferrari. The Brazilian's late-season surge offered encouragement for 2005, while Button's podium represented his ninth top-three finish from sixteen starts. One race remained in Ferrari's record-breaking championship campaign.